1966 Lotus Seven vs. 2004 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2004 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 960 kg more than 1966 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Seven | 2004 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Seven | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 61 L |
